Sharad Kelkar reveals several industry people angry with him for refusing films

Actor Sharad Kelkar has built an impressive body of work. His acting credits include some well-made television shows, notable films, and critically-acclaimed streaming shows. He has never believed in quantity, something that sets him apart from all his contemporaries.

Kelkar kick-started his acting career with television before shifting his focus to films and streaming shows. His most recent films include Laxmmi (2020) and Bhuj: The Pride of India, which premiered on Disney+ Hotstar.

“Before taking up Laxmii (2020) or Bhuj: The Pride of India, I never thought about that (the length of my role). I just liked the roles. That’s the only thing that matters. I have done five films, and it’s not about who is the producer, the banner, it is about the story, the character and how important I am in the story, what extra can I bring to the table from my side. If there is potential, I will do the film,” Kelkar said in a recent interview.

The actor also revealed that he has said no to several films in the past and his act of declining those offers did not go down well with a lot of people in the industry. “There was nothing for me to do in the film, so I straightaway refused. I am a little blunt while doing that. What will I learn if there is nothing for me to do, apart from earning money? Of course, that is important, but it comes second in work. That’s the first priority, money is secondary,” he added.

When asked about rubbing some industry people the wrong way, Kelkar said, “I couldn’t manage… There are a lot of people who are angry with me. Through you, I want to request that I am honest, I am not that harsh or badtameez (insolence). But somewhere you have to prioritise what you want to do, like everyone does. Producers cannot make every film, they choose a few to produce, a director can’t direct every film, out of 10, they might choose one. Same for actors. They also want to choose how comfortable they are.”

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